Friesian Horses are one of the oldest horse breeds in Europe, dating back to Roman times. They were originally bred in Friesland, in the Netherlands. Friesians have been influential in the development of a variety of breeds. Knights during the medieval era chose Friesians to ride because of their beauty, commanding presence, and elegance. If you want to feel like the aristocracy, a Friesian Horse is a wonderful breed for you. We love horses and have the perfect shirt for anyone who loves Friesians.

Friesian Horse Temperament

For a Friesian to be a desirable family horse, it must have a calm personality and be receptive to being handled by all family members. The Friesian is a horse for all types of riders including dressage, trail, sport, pleasure, and drivers. Friesians are highly intelligent and require a dedicated handler to keep them focused.

The Personality of the Friesian

Within the Friesian breed, there are some different personality types as there are with people. Friesians are described as being mischevious, loving, and playful. Horse lovers often describe them as being majestic with a commanding presence. It takes a handler with experience and patience to train Friesians since some of them have a tendency to be stubborn. Horses are beautiful, gentle creatures but like any other animal can be insecure at times or frightened, especially by sudden, loud noises. Friesians are brilliant animals, are sensitive, and have the ability to learn when handled by someone experienced with a genuine love for horses. One trait that many horse owners love about them is that they develop strong attachments to their owners.

Influences of the Breed

The Friesian was originally bred as a hardy, forest horse, ridden by knights in the Crusades. As the breed developed, they were bred with Andalusians. They became the foundation breed of many horses in European countries. Among the breeds that developed from Friesians are the Shire, Dutch Warmbloods, Oldenburger, Gelderlander, Old English Blacks, and Fell Ponies. Some people believe that Friesians were the ancestors of the American Morgan Horse.

A Sought After Breed

Friesians are one of the world's most expensive horse breeds and are desirable for breeding and compete in an array of programs including Western, walk-trot, costume, English, and tandem competitions. Considering their massive size, they are very agile and move gracefully. Friesians are often ridden in competitions and games at Renaissance Fairs. Friesians are the choice of many production companies for use in motion pictures because of their spectacular coloring and appearance. Friesian Horses are popular in fantasy and historical films including Alexander, Ladyhawke, The Chronicles of Narnia, and The Mask of Zorro. Horse trainers that work with production companies are partial to the Friesian Horse temperament because they have calm, pleasant dispositions, are eager to please their trainers, and are easy to train.